Reverend James F. Kramer

REVEREND JAMES F. KRAMER, The Reverend James F. Kramer entered eternal life on April 29, 2023.

James Frederick Kramer was born on July 25, 1941, to Frances (Frank) and Portia Iona (Acker) of Barberton, Ohio. He was educated at St. Augustine Elementary School in Barberton and St. Mary High School in Akron. He was a graduate of John Carroll University, Borromeo Seminary, and St. Mary Seminary. He was ordained to the priesthood on May 25, 1968.

Father Kramer served the Diocese of Cleveland at St. Bernadette, Westlake, Borromeo Seminary, Wickliffe, and St. Joseph, Strongsville, before being named Pastor of St. Bernadette Parish. He was then named Pastor of Guardian Angels Parish in Copley, where he served until his retirement in 2019. Father Kramer will be remembered for his devotion, kindness, and attentiveness to parishioners, as well as his quiet care and charitable giving to many in need.

Father Kramer spent time at each Parish making the surroundings beautiful and inviting, hoping they would be places of solace and inspiration. He also enjoyed spending time with family, friends, and parishioners at his favorite local restaurants, local sporting events, and in his travels both here and abroad.

Father Kramer was predeceased by his parents and brother Thomas (Suzy) Kramer of Rockledge, Florida. He is survived by brothers Jerome (Patricia) of Houston, Texas, Eugene (JoAnn) Kramer of Lakewood, Ohio, Richard (Jenny) Kramer of Akron, Ohio, and sisters Frances (Robert) Blackert of Beavercreek, Ohio, and Colette (Daniel) Lover of Wooster, Ohio. He was much loved by his many nieces, nephews, and their families.

The wake will begin on Sunday, May 7, 2023, at Guardian Angels Church, 1686 S. Cleveland-Massillon Road, Copley, Ohio, at 3:00 p.m. with Vespers. The wake will continue until 7:00 p.m. The Funeral Mass will be held on Monday, May 8, 2023, at 11:00 a.m. at Guardian Angels Church, followed by interment at Holy Cross Cemetery in Akron.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions to the American Diabetes Association or to Catholic Charities.